A promising young footballer who saved for months to buy a new pair of boots has had them stolen by heartless thieves.

John Hall, who plays for Middlesbrough Schoolboys district team, was devastated when thieves smashed their way into his father's car and snatched the #90 boots.

The 14-year-old, of Ayresome, had saved hard to buy the size seven red and black Nike Vapor boots in time for the opening match this season. But after a training session this week the boots, and his kit, were stolen from the car, parked behind North Ormesby library.

His father, also called John, condemned the theft.

"When we got back to the car and saw the smashed window, and that the boots were gone, he was devastated," he said.

"Because he had saved to buy them himself they meant more to him. We just want them back. Now he will have to use his old pair which are too tight on him."

Last season John Junior, called JJ by family and friends, was selected for the squad, which boasts the best players from schools across the town.

Coach Michael Robson describes him as a shy lad who has made a name for himself in football circles, and says he has a promising career ahead of him.

"He has the potential to work his way into the professional ranks and trains hard to keep fit," said Mr Robson.

"He never misses a session and really deserved the new boots, which are just too expensive for him to replace.

"His aspirations, expectations and confidence were at an all time high and then this - he is left wondering whether there really is any point in trying, because others pull you down."

The car, a five-door T registered blue and silver Toyota Picnic, was targeted between 1pm and 1.30pm on Tuesday.

* Anyone with any information about the theft is asked to phone Cleveland Police on 01642 326326.